Welcome Fairfax Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS FOR BIOPSY PROCEDURES

A biopsy is when a sample of the suspected tissue is removed and sent to a pathologist for examination. Most patients will have to return for a follow up visit to discuss pathology reports.

What to expect after surgery:

Slight swelling
Bleeding/oozing
Numbness due to anesthesia for up to six hours
Discomfort for several days
If suture was placed, it will dissolve or need to be removed at follow-up appointment

Please follow these instructions:

Drink plenty of liquids
If bleeding occurs, apply firm pressure to area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Avoid salty, spicy, crunchy, and citric foods.
Avoid mouthwashes – rinse with saltwater three times per day for one week.
Avoid hot foods or liquids while still numb
Soft diet
Avoid straws and any heavy spitting
To reduce swelling, elevate head and use ice chips
Reduce physical activity for 24 hours
Let discomfort be your guide.

Antibiotics and Pain Medications
Have any prescriptions filled promptly and take as directed. Non-narcotic medications(Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Tylenol) should be taken assoon as possible and repeated as prescribed for the first several days. Narcotic painmedication can be taken in addition (alternating medications according to a doctors’ instructions) if pain relief is not adequate. However, when narcotic pain medications (Percocet, Vicodin, Tylenol with Codeine) are taken, you should not operate automobiles or other power equipment.

Antibiotics, whenprescribed, should be taken as indicated until gone. If a rash or swelling develops, discontinue the antibiotic immediately andcall the office to inform your doctor.

Oral Hygiene and Smoking
It is important to maintain oral hygiene so that the wound will heal properly and not become infected. Smokers are advised not to smoke for five to seven days after surgery. Drawing on a cigarette may disturb the blood clot and thus interfere with the healing process.

Call your Doctor if:

You have signs of infection, sudden swelling, or fever
You have a reaction to any of the medications
You experience prolonged bleeding
Pain increases and/or your condition worsens
You have any questions regarding the surgery or post-surgery instructions. If calling after business hours, you will be directed to a paging system or call 301-206-5733 and a doctor will promptly return your call

Members of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons	Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
* * Board Eligible * Emeritus

Fairfax VA
703-385-5777
Reston VA
703-435-7100
Centreville VA
703-266-0026
Burke VA
703-764-2077
Woodbridge VA
703-672-4200

Oral Surgery Website: